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A runner

Following a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, many people head into January aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be changing the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Flexible Schedules

Leah Walsh used an artificial intelligence application for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she appreciated the liberty to ask it questions at all hours – something she believed was not possible with a personal trainer.

Leah relied on an AI-driven fitness application that gave her customized schedules with voice guidance and pace setting for her first half marathon in recent years.

She said she asked it to create a plan combining running and the gym, and it generated an 11-week programme tailored to her event day and objectives.

The user then adjusted the schedule to fit her daily routine, which she said was convenient.

The following year, she opted for a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a minute faster than her target finish.

She noted she did not want feeling pressure from a human personal trainer.

"With artificial intelligence you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she added.

Richard Gallimore

Remarkable Fitness Gains

Meanwhile, Richard Gallimore, 23, based in Swansea, has been employing artificial intelligence for his fitness and diet plans, and said he has achieved peak strength, increasing his chest press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

Richard turned to a AI assistant for help after being forced to walk a running event.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.

The free tool built a fitness and meal program tailored to his goals, and established structured routines.

"I train for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a noticeable change," he added.

The Expense Contrast: Technology vs. Conventional Training

One recent study in late 2024 analyzed prices for numerous of the biggest gym brands and found the typical monthly fee was around £38 a month, based on basic memberships.

Prices started at a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the highest-priced.

Based on further data, fitness coaches set their own rates, typically a range of thirty to sixty-five pounds per 45-60 minute session outside London and about £45-£65 in the capital.

Customers typically hire a trainer once or twice a week and work with them for a short period, but these agreements are often adaptable.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Personal Element

Fitness coach Dafydd Judd, from Cardiff, acknowledged AI can be beneficial to accelerate results, but is convinced it will not supplant the human connection and accountability that live training offers.

This expert, who has over a decade of experience as a trainer, focuses on senior clients and recovery from injuries. He mentioned some of his clients also use technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, additional information is positive," he said.

"I think the more that people are connected digitally the more they'll desire personal contact because they crave the empathy from the comprehension that is absent from a computer," he continued.

The trainer said Artificial intelligence can inform users and make coaching more efficient.

But, he argued real commitment comes when people show up physically for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at the middle of the night, a digital tool cannot ensure you show up at 7am before work," he concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a place to leave phones behind and stop being glued to screens.